Kurikulum Merdeka dan Pengembangan Karakter Siswa di Sekolah Erlangga
The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Indonesia has brought about significant changes in the education system, aiming to foster a more holistic and student-centered learning environment. One school that has embraced this new curriculum with enthusiasm is Sekolah Erlangga, a renowned institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development. This article delves into the ways in which the Merdeka Curriculum has impacted Sekolah Erlangga, particularly in its efforts to cultivate strong character traits in its students. <br/ > <br/ >#### The Merdeka Curriculum: A New Era of Learning <br/ > <br/ >The Merdeka Curriculum, introduced in 2022, emphasizes student agency, critical thinking, and the development of 21st-century skills. It allows schools greater flexibility in designing their curriculum, enabling them to tailor it to the specific needs and interests of their students. At Sekolah Erlangga, the adoption of the Merdeka Curriculum has been a transformative experience, allowing the school to further enhance its existing programs and introduce new initiatives that align with the curriculum's core principles. <br/ > <br/ >#### Fostering Character Development through Project-Based Learning <br/ > <br/ >One of the key features of the Merdeka Curriculum is its emphasis on project-based learning. This approach encourages students to engage in real-world problems, collaborate with their peers, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. At Sekolah Erlangga, project-based learning has become an integral part of the curriculum, providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in practical settings. For instance, in a recent project, students were tasked with designing a sustainable solution to reduce plastic waste in their community. This project not only allowed students to learn about environmental issues but also fostered their creativity, teamwork, and sense of responsibility. <br/ > <br/ >#### Integrating Character Education into the Curriculum <br/ > <br/ >The Merdeka Curriculum recognizes the importance of character education in shaping well-rounded individuals. Sekolah Erlangga has integrated character education into all aspects of its curriculum, from classroom activities to extracurricular programs. The school has developed a comprehensive character development program that focuses on key values such as integrity, respect, empathy, and responsibility. These values are embedded in the school's daily routines, such as morning assemblies, classroom discussions, and community service projects. <br/ > <br/ >#### The Role of Teachers in Character Development <br/ > <br/ >Teachers play a crucial role in fostering character development in students. At Sekolah Erlangga, teachers are trained to be role models and mentors, providing students with guidance and support in their personal and academic growth. They create a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and learn from their mistakes. Teachers also use various strategies to promote character development, such as storytelling, role-playing, and group discussions. <br/ > <br/ >#### The Impact of the Merdeka Curriculum on Student Character <br/ > <br/ >The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum has had a positive impact on student character at Sekolah Erlangga. Students are more engaged in their learning, demonstrating greater initiative and responsibility. They are also more confident in their abilities and are eager to contribute to their community. The school has observed a significant increase in student participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and arts, which further contribute to their character development. <br/ > <br/ >#### Conclusion <br/ > <br/ >The Merdeka Curriculum has provided Sekolah Erlangga with a framework to further enhance its commitment to character development. Through project-based learning, integrated character education, and the dedication of its teachers, the school is nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also possess strong character traits that will serve them well in their future endeavors. The school's success in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum serves as an inspiration to other educational institutions in Indonesia, demonstrating the transformative power of a student-centered approach to learning. <br/ >